SIUE Earns National Recognition as a Military-Friendly University

SIUE Earns National Recognition as a Military-Friendly University

Military Times Best for Vets Rankings has recognized Southern Illinois University Edwardsville among the nation's top colleges for veterans and military-connected students in its 2025 "Best for Vets: Colleges" rankings, highlighting the University's continued commitment to student success, accessibility, and support services. SIUE ranked No. 80 nationally overall and earned impressive distinctions across several categories, including No. 4 in Illinois, No. 11 in the Midwest, No. 22 among traditional and online institutions, No. 64 among public universities, and No. 70 in general education. The recognition places SIUE alongside universities across the country that are leading efforts to create welcoming and supportive environments for veterans, active-duty military personnel, and their families.

Located on 2,660 acres overlooking the Mississippi River near St. Louis, SIUE offers undergraduate and graduate programs in areas including nursing, business, engineering, education, sciences, and the arts. The University combines classroom learning with hands-on experiences designed to prepare students for careers in today's workforce. Military-connected students at SIUE benefit from a variety of services aimed at easing the transition to college life and supporting academic success. These include priority registration, counseling on Department of Defense and Veterans Affairs benefits, career advising, financial support guidance, peer support groups, mental health services and accommodations for disabled veterans.

SIUE also participates in the VA Work-Study program and offers military-related service projects and social events for veterans and military families. The annual Military Times rankings evaluate institutions based on university-submitted data related to academic quality, affordability, student support, and military-specific services. Schools across the nation participate in the survey process each year. The latest recognition further strengthens SIUE's reputation as a university dedicated to empowering students from all backgrounds while creating opportunities for personal growth, professional advancement, and community impact.